Former New Zealand rugby captain Sir Wilson Whineray has passed away at the age of 77.

The ex-prop, who racked up 77 appearances for the All Blacks during his playing days, died with his family beside him at Aukland Hospital this morning.

Prime Minister John Key said: "Sir Wilson was a great All Black and may have been the greatest captain we ever had. This is a loss all of New Zealand will feel."

New Zealand Rugby Union chairman Mike Eagle said: "Today is a very sad day. We have lost one of New Zealand's great heroes and for the rugby community we have lost a much-loved patron and champion of rugby."

Whineray captained the All Blacks 67 times.